The spatial analysis of this project will contribute to biogeoclimatic research about the regional ecosystems in British Columbia.
The questions that will be answered as results of a spatial analysis of the two study areas are: "What is the elevation at treeline level?" and "What factors determine this limit?".
I will define a discrete treeline, and investigate the relationships between treeline and elevation, temperature, and winter precipitation. We will be able to derive an average treeline elevation for both study sites, and observe its changing elevation depending on the direction the hill slope is facing (aspect). Also, we will find out which of the following two factors is the stronger influence on this limit: low winter temperatures or high summer temperatures. I will analyze the amount of winter precipitation (snow) at treeline level, and last but not least how the elevation of glaciers correlates with treeline elevation.
All we know so far is that trees in the Rockies grow at higher elevation than trees in the Coast Mountains. Let's get started on the research.